Koonawarra Bay 13-14 October:
Saturday’s weather forecast was for 15+ knot winds and occasional showers, neither of which occurred. With sailing due to commence at 10 AM, the 9 skippers arrived and patiently waited (and waited) for the breeze to pickup and settle so that racing could commence.
With the lack of wind it was decided to have an early lunch and hope that some sailing could be conducted after the break. The breeze settled in from the east at 5-6 knots which allowed 17 races to be conducted in the afternoon. Hot competition led to several changes in the placings in the top half of the fleet.
Sunday brought much better sailing conditions, the showers stayed away once more and with winds at 12+ knots in the morning and strengthening to 18+ knots in the afternoon. This made for some exciting sailing. Long rolling waves created great downwind surfing runs with single wave rides exceeding 30m at times.
The final results were very close, with the Gunboats being outgunned by the Swords. The weather took its toll on a few of the other boats, with 3 of the 9 entrants being forced to retire before completion of the series. A total of 36 races were conducted over the two days.
KoBSC Secretary, Jon Pinkerton, presenting the NSW ‘A’ Class State Title Trophy to 2018 winner Warren Norrie, WMYC, Sword, Sail No.05
The regatta leaders battling it out.
Beating to the windward mark in 12 knots.